abP, important changes as of 01.04.2014

At the same time, on 01.04.2014, many general technical test certificates (abP) in the area of "fire resistance of components" lost their validity, as they could not be extended further due to changed test requirements.

Due to the associated personnel bottlenecks at the testing centres and since the submission of a valid abP is a prerequisite for the lawful use of the construction product or construction method for systems with a corresponding proof of usability, the chairman of the Construction Technology Commission (in a letter dated 11.03.2014 to the inspection bodies recognised by the building authorities and dated 18.03.2014 to the managing director of the Federal Association of the Gypsum Industry e.V. V.) announced the following regulations:

• Introduction of so-called "cover sheet abPs", which could be issued by the testing bodies in exceptional cases and valid until 31.12.2014, if "there are no objective reasons to the contrary because they are based on regularly conducted tests". From 01.01.2015, the submission of a duly issued abP was then required in any case.
• Admissibility of the "old" abPs valid until 31.03.2014 for construction projects that were approved by 31.03.2014 and whose construction started by 31.05.2014.

In the meantime, the validity of the above-mentioned "cover sheet abPs" has expired. In most cases, regular abPs are available again for the affected products instead. More information can be obtained from the respective product manufacturer.

Source: bauwion